Above is some great advice for helping your dog survive July 4th. If you own a dog that is afraid of fireworks, thunder or gunshots--PLEASE do not leave it outside during the 4th. More pets are lost during the 4th of July and New Year's Day than any other times of the year. Place your pet inside in a "safe" area--I prefer to place mine in a crate since for them this is a "safe haven"--turn on some soft calming music to help drown out any outside noises, and keep them inside until the afternoon/early PM fireworks and parties are over.
As a precaution, make sure all your pets have collars with ID tags and are microchipped for identification. Make sure you have a clear recent picture of your pet if one is needed for identification.
If you know your pet has severe anxiety with fireworks--then please stay home with your pet. Do not leave them alone. Remember--they are family too and they need you.
Catie C. Arney
Kiokee Mastiffs
Hickory, NC
kiokeemastiffs@embarqmail.com
